Resettlement and Migration Support Services

Kim Frater, founder of Bid Trawler
Written by Kim Frater
Former Public Sector Buyer • Founder of Bid Trawler • 40+ years' public sector experience
"I believe public procurement shouldn't be complicated. Every guide I write explains the process in plain English so you can bid with confidence."

3 minute read  •  Updated August 2026

A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.

Think about who you're supporting

Refugees and migrants aren't just numbers or cases.

They're people with stories, challenges and hopes.

Teignbridge District Council is asking for more than a service.

They're looking for a partner who can genuinely support individuals and families through complex transitions.

The contract covers coordination of support services for refugees and migrants across Teignbridge, building on the experience from the Homes for Ukraine Scheme and other resettlement activities.

Don't just repeat what everyone else will say

Most bidders will talk about compliance and experience.

They'll list the services they offer.

But if I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see how your approach is different.

How will you make individuals feel supported and understood?

How will you ensure that every person receives the guidance they need?

That's what will make your response stand out.

Pay attention to what they say

Teignbridge District Council mentions "established partnership working".

This isn't just about delivering services in isolation.

It's about integrating with existing networks and partners like Teignbridge Community and Voluntary Services and Citizens Advice.

The buyer is looking for someone who can seamlessly fit into this ecosystem.

Make sure you address how you'll collaborate effectively.

Remember the lessons from the Homes for Ukraine Scheme

The council wants to build on the learning from previous schemes.

This is a great opportunity to show how you've adapted and improved from past experiences.

I'd highlight specific examples of what you've learned and how you'll apply those lessons here.

Real-world examples will carry weight.

Show how you'll handle challenges

Challenges are inevitable in this line of work.

What happens when there's a sudden influx of people needing help?

How do you manage cultural sensitivities?

I'd want to see a clear plan for addressing these challenges.

Not just promises, but practical strategies you've used before.

Evidence matters more than promises

This is something I learned during my time in the public sector.

Every bidder will promise excellent service.

But only those with evidence to back it up will stand out.

Use case studies, testimonials and data to demonstrate your success.

  • Case studies from similar projects
  • Testimonials from previous clients
  • Quantitative data showing outcomes
  • Awards or recognitions from the sector

Keep standards consistent over the whole term

Consistency is key.

The council will want reassurance that your service won't degrade over time.

How will you manage staff turnover?

What about training and development?

I'd explain how you'll maintain high standards from start to finish.

Show the human impact

One thing I'd keep reminding myself is that this contract is about people.

Families trying to start anew.

Individuals seeking safety and opportunity.

Every part of your submission should reflect an understanding of this human impact.

Ask yourself, "How will this make a difference to someone's life?"

That's the question to guide your answers.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

  • Focus too much on general service descriptions without personalisation
  • Fail to provide evidence of past success
  • Ignore the importance of partnership working
  • Overlook the need for consistent long-term delivery
  • Neglect to address the human impact of migration support
  • Lack a clear plan for managing challenges and risks

My Final Thoughts

Teignbridge District Council is looking for more than just a service provider.

They want a partner.

Someone who can support and integrate refugees and migrants into the community effectively.

With a contract value of £276,000, there's a lot at stake here.

Quality will likely weigh heavily in their evaluation.

Focus on the human stories, the partnerships you'll build and the evidence you bring.

That's what will set you apart.

Thanks for reading.

I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.

Kim
Founder, Bid Trawler

P.S. Got a question?

If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.

Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.

kim@bidtrawler.com

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About our "How to Win This Contract" guides

Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.

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